In this episode, we discuss the scientific and regulatory definitions of flammability and combustibility. Dr. Dastidar details different categories of flammable and combustible liquids based on their flashpoints and boiling points, and explains the classification systems of OSHA, GHS, and NFPA. The episode emphasizes the importance of understanding the flashpoint and combustibility of materials in various work environments, the implications of aerosolization, and the potential for spontaneous combustion in oily rags. The discussion covers the relevance of different test methods and standards used in hazard communication and risk assessment in industrial settings.

Ashok Ghose Dastidar

Fellow Engineer - Westinghouse Electric Company

Dr. Ashok Ghose Dastidar specializes in Chemical Process Hazards
Analysis, Flammable Dusts, Liquids & Vapors Explosion and
Combustion Hazards Analysis and Testing and Electrostatic Hazards
Analysis. He has extensive technical experience performing tests and
analyzing data to determine the following:
• Electrostatic Hazards – field measurements, discharge
potential, charge transfer and ignitability,
• Dust Explosibility Hazards – ease of ignitability and
explosion severity,
• Flammability Hazards – ease of ignitability and explosion
severity of liquid and vapor explosions,
• Thermal Stability and Reactivity Hazards – by Differential
Scanning Calorimetry and Dewar Tests,
• Hazard Analysis and Risk Mitigation – using HAZOP,
FMEA/FMECA, and FTA.

Dr. Dastidar is a member of the following:
• American Institute of Chemical Engineers (AIChE).
• American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM).
• Vice-Chairperson E27 Committee overseeing test standards to
assess the hazard potential of chemicals.
• Subcommittee chairman E27.05 overseeing dust explosibility
test standards.
• National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)
• NFPA Technical Committee Member for NFPA 660 – chairperson for chemical dust and sulfur chapters.
• Chairperson for NFPA 91 (pneumatic transport of dusts).
• Editorial Board of Powder and Bulk Solids.
• Editorial Board of Journal of Loss Prevention.
• Adjunct Professor at Worcester Polytechnic Institute.

Recognized as an industry expert, his work has appeared in
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